Broward County offering $25 million in rent relief funds. Here’s how to apply
Broward County is offering $25 million in assistance for renters whose households suffered a loss or reduction of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The money is part of the federal CARES Act funds allocated to cities to assist rent relief. The funds do not need to be paid back and will be issued directly to the applicants’ landlord.
In order to qualify for the Broward County CARES Act Rental Assistance, applicants must:
▪ Be a Broward County resident
▪ They or someone in their household suffered a documented loss of income and were unable to pay rent
▪ Have a landlord who agrees to participate in the program
The program will not cover 100% of back rents owed. For the first two months applicants did not pay rent, the program will pay 75% of the total owed. For the third, fourth and fifth months of unpaid rent, the program will cover 60% of the total due.
Applicants will be required to submit documents to prove they were impacted by COVID, including:
▪ A valid government-issued ID
▪ A rental lease agreement, or Tenant Verification Form, completed by their landlord
▪ Late notice for past due rent or eviction notice
▪ Pay stubs
▪ Evidence of unemployment or loss of income if self-employed
Applicants may be required to present other documents, such as a bank statement.
The application must be filled out online at Broward.org/CARES. The application process will begin on Aug. 31 and run through Sept. 6, 2020. Applicants must submit their paperwork from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. during those days. The application can be filled out via computer, cellphone or tablet.
Broward County’s Family Success Division will process applications and disburse funds until the money runs out.
“This $25 million rental assistance program can provide much needed financial assistance to many, many families who need our help, and help protect landlords and small businesses who need to collect rents to pay mortgages and other expenses related to property ownership,” said Broward County Mayor Dale V.C. Holness in a statement.
Broward County has another website that offers resources for people economically impacted by the pandemic.
Miami-Dade County has already used $100 million of the $942 million Federal CARES Act it received, including $35 million to restaurants and restaurant workers, $10 million in rent relief, $20 million to the United Way and $20 million for business loans.
The county is currently working with municipalities and the City of Miami about the best use for the remaining funds.
This story was originally published August 26, 2020 at 10:33 AM.
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